What are its advantages?

1. High nutritional value

Oatmeal is rich in fibre, protein, vitamin B, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc and other nutrients. It is an excellent source of energy and helps the body to function efficiently.

2. Managing blood sugar

Oatmeal contains soluble fibre called beta-glucans, which help lower blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity. This is particularly beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.

3. Weight loss

Due to its high fibre content, oatmeal provides a feeling of satiety and prevents overeating. It also helps to regulate appetite and thus contributes to easier weight control.

4. Improving digestion

The fibre in oatmeal promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation. They contribute to better intestinal flora and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

5. Lowering cholesterol

The beta-glucans contained in oatmeal help to lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood, which can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

6. Supporting heart health

In addition to lowering cholesterol, oatmeal also reduces inflammation in the body, which is crucial for heart health.

7. Rich in antioxidants

Oatmeal contains antioxidants such as avenanthramides, which have anti-inflammatory properties and protect cells from damage.

8. Suitable for gluten intolerance

Oatmeal can also be consumed by people with gluten sensitivity or those with coeliac disease, provided they make sure that the oatmeal is produced and processed separately from other gluten-containing cereals. For example, not all oatmeal is safe to eat for people with these conditions, as it may be produced in facilities that produce wheat, rice and other gluten-containing grains that may contaminate the oats. However, if we are sovereign about the origin of the oats, they are themselves gluten-free and can be consumed with confidence.

9. Easy preparation

Oatmeal is easy to prepare and can be prepared in a variety of ways so that it does not become boring. Read on as we reveal tasty ideas for quick oatmeal snacks and desserts.

10. A good base for other dishes

Oatmeal is a base to which you can add different ingredients such as fresh or dried fruit, nuts, seeds or milk to enhance the taste and nutritional value.

Why is oatmeal particularly good for digestion?

Oatmeal is excellent for digestion because of its high fibre content, especially the soluble fibre called beta-glucans. Fibre is the non-digestible component of plant foods that our bodies cannot digest, but it plays a key role in a healthy digestive system.

Here are some ways oatmeal promotes good digestion:

Relieving constipation

The fibre in oatmeal increases stool volume and softens stools, making bowel movements easier. Regular consumption of oatmeal can help prevent constipation.

Balancing intestinal flora

Fibre stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which helps to establish a healthy gut flora. This is essential for a well-functioning digestive system and overall health.

Reduce the risk of various diseases

Studies have shown that regular consumption of fibre, such as that found in oatmeal, reduces the risk of developing various digestive disorders, including stomach ulcers, haemorrhoids and colon cancer.

Improving digestive function

Fibre stimulates intestinal peristalsis, which means better movement of food through the digestive tract. This helps digestion to be more efficient and reduces the risk of digestive problems such as bloating, flatulence and other discomforts.

Reduction of inflammation

The fibre and antioxidants in oatmeal help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can help to relieve symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

It is also important to note that when consuming large amounts of fibre, it is important to drink enough water to ensure that the fibre is properly inflated and working successfully in the digestive tract.

Enhancing the taste of oatmeal

There is no need to settle for the simple, well, oat taste. Oatmeal can always be upgraded with fruit, chocolate and other sweet flavours to make it more savoury and appealing. Here are the top four oatmeal flavours we''ve tried:

Oatmeal - Apple Pie

There''s nothing better than a sweet, just-baked granny smith apple pie, right? The taste of soft, juicy apples melting all over your mouth is just divine! Let''s incorporate it into our oatmeal and add an authentic fruity flavour that will delight our taste buds! With the addition of protein, it will be a great post-workout meal or maybe a healthy breakfast!

Oatmeal - chocolate and strawberry

All chocolate lovers know that chocolate goes easily everywhere! And when you add juicy strawberries and healthy oats, it''s a winning combination. It can be eaten for dinner, breakfast or snack at work, or as a protein meal after a workout.

Oatmeal - chocolate and coconut

Coconut is an extremely nutritious fruit that supports the immune system, as it boasts anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It contains fibre, which promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation. Its sweet-tropical flavour combines phenomenally with chocolate and oats, and enhances the taste of oatmeal.

Oatmeal - chocolate and banana

Chocolate and banana flavoured oatmeal is a protein bomb of nutrients and fantastic flavours. It makes for an energy-rich and healthy breakfast or snack, where you can enjoy your meal without feeling guilty! Bananas contain soluble fibre, which improves our digestion, and they also contain important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium and folate. They regulate blood pressure and have a good effect on mood and boost energy in the body!

Oatmeal desserts

Here are 10 ideas for tasty and healthy oatmeal-based treats:

1. Oatmeal cookies with chocolate and nuts

Prepare oatmeal biscuits with the addition of dark chocolate chunks and chopped nuts. This combination will create delicious, crunchy biscuits that will satisfy your sweet tooth without having to give up your healthy way of eating.

2. Oatmeal chocolate brownies

Mix together oats, cocoa powder, eggs, butter and sweetener and bake in a baking tray. The result is a luscious and chocolatey brownie with less unnecessary sugar.

3. Oat pudding with vanilla and fruit

Prepare an oat pudding with vanilla and fresh fruit of your choice. This refreshing dessert is perfect for hot summer days!

4. Oat "cheesecake" in a jar

Arrange the oat flakes in layers in glass jars with a mixture of cottage cheese, Greek yoghurt and honey. Add fresh strawberries or blueberries for a colourful and healthy snack.

5. Oatmeal with chocolate and sliced banana

Prepare oat porridge with cocoa powder and top with sliced banana. This dessert is great for breakfast or as an after-meal treat.

6. Oat energy balls

Mix oats with dates, nuts, honey and a little coconut oil. Form into small balls and place in the fridge to harden. These balls are delicious, but they''re also great as a healthy snack on the go!

7. Oat crumble with fruit

Make a crumble with oatmeal, butter, honey and cinnamon. Add fresh or frozen fruit such as apples or strawberries and bake in the oven until the crumble is nice and crisp and golden brown.

8. Oat muffins with fruit

Prepare oat muffins by adding fresh or dried fruit such as raisins, cranberries or bananas. These muffins are a great choice for a healthy breakfast or snack.

9. Oat smoothie

Combine oats, Greek yoghurt, banana, almond milk and honey in a blender. This sweet and creamy smoothie will appeal to all oat lovers.

10. Oat pancakes

Make pancakes with oats, eggs, banana and milk. Serve with fresh fruit or maple syrup for an even better taste.

These oatmeal desserts are a great way to enjoy a meal that is both nutritious and healthy. Of course, the recipes described here can always be adapted according to your own preferences and the ingredients you have available.